What not to do when caring for leather | Basics of stain removal, creams, and storage
When you get home from a leather bag you took out over the weekend and wipe it down, you may notice that the color has deepened and the handle has become glossier. The fun of working with leather lies in those casual moments.
However, because I love it, I tend to put too much effort into it. I'm worried about dirt so I rub it hard, I put more cream on it because it looks dry, and I rush to blow warm air on it because it's wet from the rain. All of these actions are done out of a desire to cherish them, but they can be a burden on the leather.
Things you want to avoid when caring for leather are chemicals that are not compatible with the material, strong friction, excessive water or oil, heat, and damp storage.On the other hand, just being aware of this area will make it much easier to make care decisions.
In this article, we will organize what you should not do and what you can do instead, focusing on bags and wallets. The important thing is not to try to make anything look new again. Let's distinguish between the taste you want to preserve and the damage that needs to be addressed.
before starting care. “Genuine leather” alone does not determine the method.
Even though the leather is the same brown, the tools that go well with it are different between moist oiled leather and smooth, fuzzy suede. There are some leathers whose surface needs to be polished to give them a shine, while others are unique in that they do not need to be polished. First of all, I would like to emphasize this difference.
Look at the material display and product description, and if you are unsure, check with the store where you purchased it. Don't decide on care products just because they say they are for leather.The target material/finish and can it be used for bags and clothing?Read up to. Just because they are made of cowhide leather, it would be premature to apply the same care to your boots as to your wallet.
| Material/finish | Things to check before cleaning |
|---|---|
| Smooth leather (leather with a smooth surface) | Check whether the cream or cleaner can be used for the stain/finish. Test in a place where changes in color and shine are not noticeable. |
| Brushed leather such as suede and nubuck | Choose brushes and supplies that are compatible with brushed leather. Do not apply smooth leather cream in the same way. |
| Special finishes such as enamel | Check methods and supplies for surface processing. Don't assume that a general leather protection cream is sufficient. |
| Combination with PU leather and canvas | Distinguish it from genuine leather and check the handling of each material. Even supplies that can be used for leather may not necessarily be usable for the adjacent cloth or synthetic leather. |
Priority is given to handling each product. Don't decide on the material or finish based on appearance alone; check the labeling and product description.
When using a new product, test a small amount in an inconspicuous area to see the color and texture after it dries. Don't judge by just applying it, even colorless creams may look darker or have a matte look with a glossy finish.
5 things you should not do with stain remover/cream
1. Quickly remove stains with alcohol or nail polish remover
When you get a blackhead on your wallet, you may want to wipe it with a disinfectant wipe. However, removing dirt from leather and wiping down a table are not the same thing. Products containing alcohol, acetone, etc. may affect dyeing and surface finish, leading to discoloration or changes in gloss.
First, remove any dust from the surface using a soft cloth or brush that is appropriate for the material, and then check to see if there is a leather cleaner that can be used to remove any remaining dirt.Prioritize whether it can be used without damaging the finish rather than the strength of the removal force.Please.
If the color comes off or the surface becomes sticky after wiping, stop trying another detergent. Make a note of what you used and attach a photo of its condition to the store where you purchased it or a leather repair shop.
2. Continue rubbing the dark spots and small scratches with force.
The areas that are touched more often, such as the corners of wallets, the handles of bags, and the backs of shoulder straps, are more likely to get dirty and change. However, this does not necessarily mean that just polishing that area over and over again will make it clean. If the surface is rubbed by strong friction or the gloss changes in some areas, unevenness that is different from the original stain will be created.
Wipe gently with a dry, soft cloth and keep an eye on the changes. If you notice any changes in the cloth, such as obvious color or fuzziness on the surface, stop at that point. It is also best not to substitute erasers or polishing sponges at your own discretion.
I'm drawn to vintage tools because their uneven expressions are also appealing. Of course, I don't want to recommend leaving dirt alone. However, there is no need to try to erase all the deepening of the color and small scratches due to use.
3. Washing your bag or wallet without checking the instructions
Rather than remembering that ``not a drop of water can come on leather,''Do not wash without permissionIt will be easier to make a decision if you remember this. Some products can be wiped with a tightly wrung out cloth, but soaking them in water is a different matter.
In addition to leather, bags and wallets also have linings, core materials, adhesive parts, and metal fittings. If you look only at the surface and decide that it looks washable, the shape and texture may change after it dries. When using a washing machine or soaking the product, please follow the instructions only if the product specifies support.
If oil from food or drinks has soaked into your skin, consult your doctor before washing thoroughly with household detergent. If you tell us the type of stain, when it appeared, and what treatments you have already tried, we will be able to give you a more specific consultation on repair and cleaning.
4. Apply cream in layers, apply plenty each time
The satisfaction of taking care of your skin is not proportional to the amount of cream you use. If you apply too much, excess ingredients may remain on the surface or the color or texture may change unintentionally. Nor does it mean that the softer the better.
If you need to preserve the leather and have confirmed that it can be used on the leather, apply it in small amounts according to the instructions on the product. If you are applying it with a cloth, do not put it directly on the leather, but spread it thinly on the cloth. Don't try to finish it all at once; check how it's blended before making a decision.
You don't have to decide just by date, such as "every month" or "every time you use it." The guideline will vary depending on the leather finish, frequency of use, location, and type of supplies. Based on the instructions given at the time of purchase, I think that the distance between the two and seeing the difference in texture is just right for long-term use.
If any excess cream remains after application, gently remove it with a soft cloth according to the corresponding finishing method. Dry wiping alone will not necessarily restore the oil or color change that has soaked into the product. If the change is significant without degreasing with detergent or trying to expel it by heating, please consult us.
5. Substitute oils you have at hand or care products for other purposes.
Even if you have hand cream or cooking oil on hand, unless you can confirm that it can be used for leather products, do not use it as a substitute. The intended uses are different for skin, cooking, and leather.
The same goes for leather products; if you want to use a cream that complements the color of your shoes on a bag, make sure that the product is compatible with the bag and can be used on areas that come into contact with clothing. Another example of this is to avoid applying smooth leather cream even though you want to keep the suede coat.
Genuine leather oil cannot be automatically used on PU leather either. If you are concerned about the surface becoming sticky or peeling, check the material first and consider other maintenance.
When it gets wet in the rain, do not rush to dry it with a hair dryer or in direct sunlight.
Rain that wasn't in the forecast on the way back from touring or on a trip. We get nervous when we see wet leather, but the first thing you want to avoid is putting it near a hairdryer or stove. Drying it too quickly with heat may lead to hardening or deformation.
What we want to aim for is not “just as quickly as possible” butGently remove moisture, support the shape, and dry in the shade with good ventilation.. If it's a bag, I'll calmly deal with it in the following order.
- 1 Absorb water dropletsLightly apply a clean, soft cloth that is resistant to color transfer without rubbing.
- 2 Take out the contents and adjust the shapeRemove wet luggage and support it comfortably with plain paper, etc., if necessary. Don't pack too much
- 3 Dry in the shade and check the conditionEnsure ventilation and check inside. Replace damp fillings and do not store them in storage bags until dry.
If it's a wallet, remove your cards and bills and avoid opening it too wide or bending it. Leather jackets are heavy, so use a hanger that fits and dry them according to the product's handling instructions.
If hardness or stains remain after drying, consider care that matches the material or professional cleaning. Even if you apply a large amount of cream while the hair is still wet, there is no guarantee that it will come back clean.
What you want to avoid during storage is trapping moisture and unreasonable loads.
Do not store wet items in plastic bags or in closed areas.
When you get home, put your bag in a bag and keep it there until the next weekend. I understand what you're thinking, but if you seal the door with moisture from rain or sweat remaining, it can easily lead to mold and other problems. Before you put it away, check not only the surface, but also the back and inside of the handle.
When storing for a long time, lightly remove dirt and dust, dry thoroughly, and then store in a breathable storage bag. Open the storage space from time to time to check its condition. If you use a dehumidifier, choose one that can be used on leather products, and place it as instructed to avoid direct contact with the leather.
Don't leave it on the windowsill, let it rest in a way that suits its shape.
Leather bags also look great in your room. However, avoid places near a window that is exposed to direct sunlight for long periods of time or where it is exposed to heat from a heater. Even in storage that is on display, please reconsider how light and heat are exposed to it.
When it comes to losing its shape, the correct answer is not determined by choosing between placing it or hanging it. If you hang a heavy item only by the handle, the strain will be concentrated on that part, and if you stack things on top, it will leave marks. Reduce the contents and choose a position that naturally supports the bag's shape.
As for stuffing, it doesn't mean that it's safe just by putting it in a bun. Gently support the parts you don't want folded in, and if it's a wallet, remove any cards or receipts you won't use. Small habits like this are more helpful than big tools.
Easy daily care for a long-term relationship
After reading this far, leather may seem like a rather difficult material. However, you don't need to do a full course of care every time. First, look at the whole thing after using it, lightly dust it off, and if it's wet, let it dry. Try to make this basics into a form that you can continue without difficulty.
Spreading out your care tools on holidays is fun, but before you decide what to paint, it's best to take the time to look at and touch the leather as it is. Check for scratches on the handles and corners, check for moisture inside, and perform the necessary care where necessary. That way, it will be easier to notice changes in your tools.
Separately look at ``taste has come out'' and ``damaged''
Depending on the finish of the leather, you can enjoy changes such as the color shading, luster, and small scratches caused by use. On the other hand, if there are tears, frayed seams, or damage to the base of the handle, it is difficult to continue using it. If there is damage in a place where force is applied, refrain from using it and consult about repair.
The cream does not glue cracks that are already open. By separating maintenance of its texture from maintenance and repairing damaged areas, you will be able to see what action to take next.
There are also leathers like Crazy Horse Leather that you can enjoy with their color fluctuations and a worn look. Before polishing to a uniform luster, find out what kind of texture and flavor the product will have. It is interesting for leather lovers to think about care from there.
COWMONO SELECTION
Daily outings and weekend trips. How to interact with each type of leather
When choosing, it is also important to consider the situation and combination of materials. From cowmono's range, we would like to introduce two items that differ in size and material composition.
Add a touch of leather to your casual outings
Crazy horse leather shoulder bag_T
A 24 x 17 x 3 cm shoulder bag made of genuine cowhide crazy horse leather, with a cell phone pocket and a zipper pocket on the inside. If you're looking for a compact leather bag, try comparing the size to what you usually carry.
See photos and specifications →
Enjoy the texture of canvas and leather
Crazy horse leather canvas Boston bag_A
This 53 x 23 x 30 cm, 1.1 kg Boston bag combines canvas and crazy horse leather, and has an atmosphere that makes you want to incorporate it into your travel preparations. When caring for the material, you should consider the leather and canvas parts separately.
See photos and specifications →Frequently asked questions about leather care
Is it absolutely wrong to wipe leather with water?
Not all leathers are prohibited. Depending on the product, instructions may be provided to use a soft cloth that has been wrung out tightly. However, since there are some finishes such as brushed leather and finishes that are prone to water stains, please prioritize the explanation of each product. Even if a product can be wiped with water, it does not mean that it can be washed by soaking it in water.
Can I use alcohol-free wet wipes?
Just because it doesn't contain alcohol doesn't mean it can be used on leather. It also has compatibility with other ingredients, moisture, and leather finishes. Avoid items that cannot be confirmed to be used for leather products, and use compatible cloths and care products.
Should I apply cream to a new leather wallet as soon as I buy it?
Since it varies depending on the original oil content, finish, and manufacturer's instructions, it cannot be said that it is uniformly necessary just because it is new. First, check the condition and description at the time of purchase, and if leather preservation is required, use compatible products. If you like the new color or matte texture, it is important to check to see if there are any changes.
Can I use waterproof spray to prevent rain and color transfer?
Waterproof/water-repellent sprays are used to protect the corresponding materials from getting wet. It does not make the entire bag completely waterproof or reliably prevent color transfer to clothing due to friction. Be careful of water coming from seams and openings, and prioritize ways to keep your clothes dry on rainy days.
When using it, be sure to check the applicable materials and precautions, and make sure to do so outdoors in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling the spray. Avoid open flames, and follow the product's instructions for quantity, distance, and drying time.
If I find something that looks like mold, should I wipe it with alcohol?
It may be difficult to determine whether the white material is mold or oil or fat that has appeared on the surface just by looking at it. Please do not use alcohol on your own or brush the leather vigorously in the room, and check the condition separately from other leather products. If the problem has spread, the smell is strong, or it occurs again, contact a leather cleaning and repair specialist.
Caring for leather is also a time to take good care of your tools, so before you rush to apply anything, take a moment to breathe. If you stick with it while observing its current texture, you will surely enjoy the joy of carrying out your bag or wallet for a long time.
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Author information
Author name: Yama (Cowmono Owner)
Engaged in sales and marketing for more than a quarter at domestic and overseas apparel companies. He has a deep knowledge of fashion, sports, outdoor activities, and subculture.